The Border Terrier Dog breed is a friendly and playful one. They are courageous, flexible, and affable, especially among kids. They tend to be laid-back, autonomous, and prefer to make their own decisions. The Border loves to chase rabbits and squirrels but, with proper socialization and introduction, can get along with other house pets. This dog is at home in both the city and the countryside. The Border Terrier is ideal for an energetic owner who appreciates the “large dog in a little body” mentality of a terrier but would prefer a gentler, less fiery, and more sociable variation.
History
Both sides of the Cheviot Hills in Great Britain are where the border terrier dog breed first appeared. The border region between Scotland and England is made up of these hills. The fierce hill foxes scared farmers’ livestock since there are so many hills in this region. One of the earliest terrier breeds in Great Britain may very well be the border terrier. They have been employed as a hunt terrier by the border foxhounds since 1869 and may be seen in many of the famous hunt paintings. They were first displayed as a distinct breed in agricultural society exhibitions in Northumberland in the late 19th century. Following the establishment of the Border Terrier Club by the British Kennel Club in 1920, the American Kennel Club recognized them as a breed in 1930.
Size
The Border Terrier is made to be both large and little, allowing it to keep up with hunters riding horses. Females weigh 11.5 to 14 pounds, but males weigh 13 to 15.5 pounds. They are 10–11 inches tall. They have an average lifespan of 13 to 15 years and are generally a healthy breed.
Personality
When properly trained and socialized, border terriers can be highly affectionate with their family and even get along well with young children. Although they can have a strong-willed tendency in their personalities, these dogs can be intelligent and only partially trainable. They also enjoy to play.
Food
Border terrier puppies typically do well on high-quality puppy food that has balanced components. As puppies get older, they should transition to an adult blend or a homemade diet under the supervision of a veterinarian. Overfeeding and excessive fat intake should be avoided by owners to prevent excessive weight gain, which can exacerbate the breed’s frequent hip issues. This food’s real chicken and turkey provide essential glucosamine and chondroitin to protect Border Terriers’ joints from conditions like hip dysplasia. Healthy grains with high protein content, such as barley, oats, and quinoa, also contain fiber to make your dog feel full and prevent overeating. The taurine is beneficial for the health of the heart and eyes, to sum up.
Grooming
A rough, wiry outer coat covers a delicate, fluffy undercoat in the Border Terrier dog. They sheds seasonally, like the majority of double-coated breeds. The majority of the time, a short brushing once every week or two is sufficient to maintain the coat’s health. Owners should plan on spending about 30 minutes per day during the shedding season manually or with a rake or other instrument to remove the dead hair. Despite the outer coat’s capacity to repel dirt, bathing undermines it. A towel and a brush can typically be used to clean up after a dirty Border Terrier. The Border Terrier’s nails need be frequently clipped, as with all breeds.
Training
Border terriers are intelligent and keen to satisfy their owners. As a result, they are adept at learning obedience commands. They can, however, be independent thinkers who are obstinate when it comes to obeying. Begin training your border terrier dog as soon as possible since it is simpler to create good habits in pups than it is to break negative habits in adults. As soon as you are able, enroll your puppy in a puppy obedience class. Use positive training approaches at all times; harsh corrections might cause a dog to shut down and stop learning. It’s also critical to stick to your instructions.
Health
The Border Terrier is susceptible to breed-specific health issues such as:
- Heart defects
- Seizures
- Hypothyroidism
- Cryptorchidism
- Eye concerns
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes syndrome
- Canine epileptoid cramping syndrome (CECS)
By obtaining a Border Terrier dog from a reputable breeder that uses safe breeding procedures and screening for common diseases and disorders, you can reduce major health risks.
Bottom Line
Border Terriers adore children and can keep up with their energy levels all day, but they’re a little too exuberant for homes with children under the age of six.
Always teach children how to approach and touch your Border Terrier, and supervise any interactions between dogs and small children to avoid biting or ear tugging from either party.
Border Terrier dog breeds normally get along well with other dogs and cats, especially if exposed to them when they are puppies. They work best with dogs of the same gender. They are likely to chase outdoor cats, squirrels, and other wildlife, and they should not be left alone with pet birds or small, fuzzy pets.
